Kanye West has had his eye on Irina Shayk since he and estranged wife Kim Kardashian went their separate ways — and so far, the new couple’s relationship is going swimmingly.
A source tells Page Six exclusively that the Yeezy designer, 44, has been interested in dating for a while now and actively pursued the model, 35, not long after his split from the “Keeping Up With the Kardashians” star, 40.
“Kanye always had a thing for Irina, so she came to mind early on in his divorce from Kim. He decided to shoot his shot, and it worked,” our insider shares.
Although she’s juggling a new romance, Shayk is still making sure her 4-year-old daughter, Lea, whom she shares with ex Bradley Cooper, remains her main priority.
“Irina is a very hands-on mother and won’t let a new romance distract her from her daughter, so it’s perfect that things with Kanye are very casual and laid-back at the moment,” our source continues. “They’re still getting acquainted, but the spark is definitely there, and Kanye likes where things are headed.”
A rep for Shayk had no comment. West’s rep didn’t immediately return Page Six’s request for comment.
The “Monster” rapper and the Russia native began dating a few weeks ago, Page Six exclusively reported, though they’ve been in touch since the spring.
The couple jetted off to Provence, France, for West’s 44th birthday and were photographed walking the grounds of a luxury boutique hotel both by themselves and with a group of people. They returned to the US by way of a private plane and were snapped once again disembarking from the jet.
Kardashian filed for divorce from the father of her four kids in February. Although West has made it clear he’s moved on, Kardashian has yet to be seen publicly with a new man.
“Kim is fine with it,” an insider previously said of West’s new relationship. “She just wants him to be happy and healthy.”
A separate source told us, “Kim is studying [for the bar exam] and focused on the kids.”